On Tuesday, August 15, the University of Minnesota will host Minnesota Sparks in Andover, Minn., at the Bunker Hill Activity Center. The event, which will be hosted by Regent Michael Hsu, brings two University researchers—who are tackling some of the area’s most critical issues—into conversation with members of the local community.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m., presentations and Q&A discussions are held from 6–7:15 p.m., and an open social hour will be held at 7:15 p.m. to close the evening. Minnesota Sparks is free of charge, and all are welcome to attend. Registration is encouraged. To register, visit z.umn.edu/sparksinandover or contact the U of M Alumni Association at 612-624-2323.
Minnesota Sparks in Andover features two University of Minnesota researchers:
- Rebecca Masterman, Ph.D.: Helping People Help Bees
Honey bees and wild, native bees are now faced with a multitude of challenges that include a lack of floral resources, pests, diseases and pesticides. The Bee Squad was founded by Prof. Marla Spivak of the UMN Bee Lab to help people address these challenges. Learn about bee health issues and how the UMN Bee Squad helps people help bees through programming and Extension work. Additionally, find out how you can support bees by adopting bee friendly practices.
- Dr. Carolyn Fairbanks: Chronic Pain and Drug Addiction: The Search for New Treatments
Chronic pain and opioid addiction are separate, complex brain disorders both of which are in need of innovative treatments. Dr. Carolyn Fairbanks will explain how new ultra-localized therapies designed to relieve pain without affecting addiction centers in the brain may help to address both concerns.
Minnesota Sparks in Andover is part of a larger series of Minnesota Sparks events throughout the state.
Media note: Media are welcome to attend any or all of the event. Please RSVP to the University News Service, 612-624-5551, [email protected]. Interviews with presenting faculty are available.
- Categories:
- Health
